Cardiff vs Bluevine:
Small Business Financing Comparison

Working Capital

Working Capital

Editorial Team

Working Capital
The Working Capital Promise

At Working Capital, we believe access to funding should be simple, transparent, and designed around your business not the other way around. We’re committed to helping entrepreneurs make smart financial decisions with tools, guidance, and lending partners they can trust.

Overview

When margins are tight, payroll is looming, and opportunities can’t wait, you need financing that’s fast, flexible, and built with your day-to-day challenges in mind. Not every lender can deliver financing at the speed you need it, though. Securing the best short term business loan is largely about finding a partner who understands the realities of running a small business.

Cardiff and Bluevine both specialize in taking the headaches out of traditional borrowing and offering solutions designed to keep small businesses moving forward. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by paperwork, long approval timelines, or repayment terms that don’t match the rhythm of your revenue, you’ll want to take a closer look at how these two lenders stack up.

Here we’ll dig into how Cardiff and Bluevine structure their lending products and which one may be the better fit for your business.

Features Snapshot

Cardiff Loan
Cardiff vs Bluevine Table
Financing Products
Financing Products
Full suite of loan options, including business lines of credit, merchant cash advance, equipment financing, SBA loans, and term loans. Also offer business credit cards with a cash advance option.1
Focused primarily on working capital lines of credit. Also offers a business checking account with debit card and a business credit card, plus referrals to partners for term loans and SBA loans.6
Loan Size Range
Loan Size
Range
Flexible funding from $5,000 up to $500,000 or more, depending on the product. (For example, working capital loans and MCAs up to ~$500K; SBA loans can potentially go higher.)1
Offers $5,000 to $250,000 for its own line of credit. Term loans through partners can go up to $500,000, and SBA loans up to $350,000 via partner lenders.6
Speed Approval Funding
Speed (Approval & Funding)
Extremely fast. Approval in around five minutes and can often provide funding the same day. Online application and fast underwriting enable quick turnaround for most applicants.1
Quick online application with automated review. Funding can be as fast as same day or within 24 hours once approved. Instant access to draws on credit lines available to businesses banking with Bluevine.7
Repayment Terms
Repayment Terms
Varies by product. Short term loans and MCA range from three to up to 24 months. Equipment financing extends two to five years. Some loans offer daily, weekly, or monthly repayment schedules.1
Short duration for credit lines. Each draw is typically repaid over six to 12 months in fixed weekly or monthly installments (automatic ACH debits).8 Partner term loans offer up to 24-month terms.6
Cost Rates Fees
Cost (Rates & Fees)
Offers both fixed-fee financing and low-rate loans with factor rates for short term advances. Secured and government-backed loans carry lower interest. Cardiff advertises rates from ~5.99% on the best-qualified loans. No prepayment penalties.1
For a credit line, interest starts around 7.8% (simple interest) for top-tier borrowers. APR may be much higher depending on draw duration. No origination, draw, or monthly fees on the line of credit.7
Eligibility
Eligibility

No strict minimum credit score. Businesses with at least six to 12 months in business and ~$20K+ monthly revenue may qualify. Cardiff funds a wide range of industries, including niche sectors.1

Requires ~12+ months in business, 625+ personal credit score, and ~$10K monthly revenue (>$120K/year). Certain industries (e.g., auto dealers, finance companies, nonprofits, etc.) are not eligible for Bluevine’s financing. Businesses must be U.S.-based, and Bluevine doesn’t operate in a few states, like Nevada or the Dakotas.7
Financing Products
Financing Products
Cardiff Loan
Full suite of loan options, including business lines of credit, merchant cash advance, equipment financing, SBA loans, and term loans. Also offer business credit cards with a cash advance option.1
Cardiff vs Bluevine Table
Focused primarily on working capital lines of credit. Also offers a business checking account with debit card and a business credit card, plus referrals to partners for term loans and SBA loans.6
Loan Size Range
Loan Size
Range
Cardiff Loan
Flexible funding from $5,000 up to $500,000 or more, depending on the product. (For example, working capital loans and MCAs up to ~$500K; SBA loans can potentially go higher.)1
Cardiff vs Bluevine Table
Offers $5,000 to $250,000 for its own line of credit. Term loans through partners can go up to $500,000, and SBA loans up to $350,000 via partner lenders.6
Speed Approval Funding
Speed (Approval & Funding)
Cardiff Loan
Extremely fast. Approval in around five minutes and can often provide funding the same day. Online application and fast underwriting enable quick turnaround for most applicants.1
Cardiff vs Bluevine Table
Quick online application with automated review. Funding can be as fast as same day or within 24 hours once approved. Instant access to draws on credit lines available to businesses banking with Bluevine.7
Repayment Terms
Repayment Terms
Cardiff Loan
Varies by product. Short term loans and MCA range from three to up to 24 months. Equipment financing extends two to five years. Some loans offer daily, weekly, or monthly repayment schedules.1
Cardiff vs Bluevine Table
Short duration for credit lines. Each draw is typically repaid over six to 12 months in fixed weekly or monthly installments (automatic ACH debits).8 Partner term loans offer up to 24-month terms.6
Cost Rates Fees
Cost (Rates & Fees)
Cardiff Loan
Offers both fixed-fee financing and low-rate loans with factor rates for short term advances. Secured and government-backed loans carry lower interest. Cardiff advertises rates from ~5.99% on the best-qualified loans. No prepayment penalties.1
Cardiff vs Bluevine Table
For a credit line, interest starts around 7.8% (simple interest) for top-tier borrowers. APR may be much higher depending on draw duration. No origination, draw, or monthly fees on the line of credit.7
Eligibility
Eligibility
Cardiff Loan
No strict minimum credit score. Businesses with at least six to 12 months in business and ~$20K+ monthly revenue may qualify. Cardiff funds a wide range of industries, including niche sectors.1
Cardiff vs Bluevine Table
Requires ~12+ months in business, 625+ personal credit score, and ~$10K monthly revenue (>$120K/year). Certain industries (e.g., auto dealers, finance companies, nonprofits, etc.) are not eligible for Bluevine’s financing. Businesses must be U.S.-based, and Bluevine doesn’t operate in a few states, like Nevada or the Dakotas.7

Working Capital

up to $500K
Approval in minutes

Funding same day

cardiff

Financing Excellence
Since 2004

cardiff.co

cardiff

Lender Pros

Cardiff Loan
Cardiff vs Bluevine Table

Working Capital

up to $500K
Approval in minutes

Funding same day

cardiff

Financing Excellence
Since 2004

cardiff.co

cardiff

Breakdown by Financial Product

Merchant Cash Advances

Cardiff's Overview

A strong borrowing option for small businesses, Cardiff’s merchant cash advance provides capital up front in exchange for a percentage of future sales or a fixed payback amount (factor rate). Repayment terms range from as little as three months up to about 18–24 months.2 Term flexibility makes Cardiff’s merchant cash advance loans perfect for bridging short or longer-term gaps and can save you on cost as shorter terms carry lower total fees.

MCA funds can cover just about any business need, including payroll, inventory purchases, taxes, renovations, marketing, etc.; approval through Cardiff is extremely fast, often just five minutes. Cardiff’s MCA doesn’t require specific collateral, and can approve MCA loans for small business owners with a decent credit score (500+). Repayment is typically through daily, weekly, or monthly ACH deductions from your business account, but Cardiff works to tailor the repayment schedule to your cash flow. Repayment can be made as fixed payments.2

Rather than charging interest, Cardiff uses factor rates for MCAs. For example, a 6-month advance might have a factor of 1.1, meaning you repay 1.1 times the amount advanced. A longer 12-month advance could have a factor rate of 1.10 or higher. And if you repay early, you stop the automatic withdrawals and can potentially renew the advance on even better terms. Cardiff’s factor rates are competitive for the industry, placing them among the top working capital lenders.2

Bluevine's Overview

Bluevine does not offer MCAs or any kind of revenue-based financing product. Bluevine’s focus is on a traditional line of credit. If your business specifically wants a merchant cash advance, Bluevine will not be an option.

For working capital, Bluevine’s alternative is its business line of credit. While not an MCA, a line of credit can serve a similar purpose (quick cash for short term needs). However, the structure is different. Bluevine’s credit line has fixed installment repayments.8 If your sales slow down, Bluevine’s weekly payment still stays the same, whereas an MCA’s daily remit would typically flex lower. That difference can make Bluevine less forgiving during slow periods.

Additionally, Bluevine requires stronger qualifications (625+ credit,8 1 year+ in business) for its credit line, whereas MCAs are often more accessible to lower credit tiers.

The Capital Call

Cardiff clearly wins the title of best cash advance lender when compared to Bluevine, most notably because Bluevine doesn’t offer this type of financing. For businesses that want a fast cash infusion with flexible repayment tied to revenue, Cardiff is the leading choice. Cardiff’s MCA can fund in a day and accommodate those who might not qualify for traditional loans, which makes it an indispensable option for many small businesses.

Bluevine’s credit line is an alternative for short term capital, but without the flexible repayment schedule. It isn’t the same as an MCA. When we compare working capital loan options, Cardiff stands out as the better (and only) choice here.

Business Lines of Credit

Cardiff's Overview

Cardiff’s line of credit (LOC) ensures you have a consistent flow despite seasonal or cyclical fluctuations. You can draw funds when you need capital up to your approved credit limit, and only pay interest on the amount you draw. When you repay what you’ve borrowed, those funds become available to draw again, making the line a reusable resource.

While Cardiff does look at credit and finances when approving businesses, they do not impose a strict minimum credit score requirement, so qualifying with Cardiff is more forgiving than banks. What matters more is that your business generates revenue and has the cash flow to support the credit line. Typically, you should have at least 12 months in business and regular monthly revenue to get a Cardiff line. Credit limits can vary widely, but the company states its lines of credit scale with your business, whether you are small and growing or already thriving in your industry.7

For repayment, Cardiff’s lines of credit are often structured with short term draws. For example, if you draw on the line, you might repay that draw over six, nine, or 12 months with fixed weekly or monthly payments. In some cases, Cardiff can also structure interest-only periods or other more flexible repayment plans.7 The ability to customize is a hallmark of Cardiff that sets it apart from other business line of credit providers.

Whether secured or unsecured, Cardiff lines of credit do not charge draw fees. There is no penalty for prepayment, closure, or maintenance. The LOC provides on-demand working capital with flexibility in both access and repayment. It’s particularly useful if you don’t know exactly when or how much funding you’ll need over a year, but want a safety net.

Bluevine's Overview

Bluevine’s flagship offering is its business line of credit. This revolving credit facility lets you borrow any amount you need in increments as low as a few thousand dollars up to your approved amount ($250,000 for qualified borrowers). Each draw is like a mini loan you pay back in fixed installments. The standard repayment term can be up to 52 weeks for each draw.8

Bluevine quotes a simple interest rate on each draw (as low as 7.8% for top customers). If you pay a draw off early, you save on interest since interest is only charged for the days you have the balance outstanding. Importantly, Bluevine does not charge origination fees, monthly fees for keeping the line open, or prepayment penalties, keeping fees low.8 You draw, use it, and if you can pay it back faster, you reduce your cost.

The speed and automation of the application allow for approval decisions in as little as five minutes—a benefit of Bluevine. And if you accept the complimentary Bluevine Business Checking Account, you can request funds through your Bluevine dashboard and get those funds immediately in that account. Otherwise, transfers to an external bank typically arrive within one business day (or same day via wire with a small fee).14

To qualify for the Bluevine credit line requires at least 12 months in business, a 625+ credit score, and $120,000+ in annual revenue (roughly $10K/month). They will also check that you have no recent bankruptcies and will likely review your bank account data to assess cash flow. Bluevine’s credit line is unsecured but does come with a personal guarantee requirement.8

The Capital Call

In the line of credit category, both companies have capable offerings, but the best line of credit for your business will depend on what matters most to you. Bluevine’s credit line stands out for its tech-driven convenience and low costs. If you have good credit and a stable business, Bluevine can be a fast and easy way to get a revolving credit line with no extra fees. Its integration with a checking account for instant funding is a unique perk Bluevine offers.

Cardiff’s line of credit distinguishes itself in flexibility and accessibility. Cardiff can likely finance some businesses that Bluevine would turn away (due to a shorter time in business or lower credit). Cardiff is also more open to customizing terms, including potentially longer repayment options. Additionally, Cardiff’s willingness to fund various industries without restriction gives it a broader reach.

For many small businesses that need a bit more wiggle room in qualification or repayment, Cardiff’s line of credit is a more flexible and versatile solution overall. Cardiff also wins points for offering that human touch. Guidance from a financing specialist can be invaluable when deciding how much credit to use and when.

Working Capital

up to $500K
Approval in minutes

Funding same day

cardiff

Financing Excellence
Since 2004

cardiff.co

cardiff

Equipment Financing

Cardiff's Overview

Cardiff can help finance virtually any type of business equipment, from heavy machinery and commercial vehicles to medical equipment or restaurant appliances, with a loan tool tailored to these large purchases. The key benefit to small business equipment loans and leases is that you don’t have to pay for the asset in one lump sum; Cardiff enables you to pay off the equipment while you use it, preserving your cash for other needs.

Cardiff offers interest rates starting at 5.99% with two to five-year terms for equipment financing, allowing you to choose a shorter term if you want to pay it off quickly or a longer term (up to 60 months) if you’d rather keep payments as low as possible. They can even roll in soft costs into the financing, including delivery, installation, or staff training.3 That means if, for example, you’re buying a piece of machinery that requires shipping and setup, Cardiff can finance those additional expenses, truly covering the total cost of ownership.

You can decide between a lease or a loan depending on whether you eventually want to own the equipment outright or prefer to potentially upgrade it at term’s end. Cardiff’s team can advise on the best option: a finance lease where you typically buy the equipment for a nominal amount at the end or a true lease in which you might return or upgrade the equipment.

Commercial equipment financing is often somewhat easier to get approved because the equipment itself acts as collateral. With Cardiff, equipment financing is not based solely on your FICO score or revenue. Cardiff takes a holistic approach to evaluating businesses for equipment financing. If your company is less than a year old or has low credit, Cardiff can likely help. They even finance startups for equipment.3

Because Cardiff is comfortable financing both titled and non-titled assets, they finance vehicles that have titles and general equipment. They also have experience in various industries and can offer equipment financing for dentists, trucking fleet owners and operators, and auto repair companies. They understand the specific equipment those businesses use.3

Bluevine's Overview

Bluevine does not have financing or leasing products designed for purchasing or leasing equipment. Through Bluevine, the primary option would be to either use a line of credit (drawing a large amount to pay for the equipment) or to apply for a term loan through Bluevine’s partner network. However, neither of these options is specifically tailored to equipment purchases.

Using Bluevine’s line of credit for equipment purchases has limitations. The term to repay is six to 12 months.3 Repaying a large loan for heavy equipment in a short time frame can create a heavy cash flow burden for most businesses and negate the benefit that the equipment provides in the short term.

Bluevine’s partner term loans could extend up to 24 months, which is better, but many businesses need three to five years to repay expensive assets comfortably.

So, while you can technically use a Bluevine loan or line for equipment, you’d be self-funding the equipment through a short term loan, which is often not ideal. Matching the financing term with the useful life of the asset (e.g., pay it off over four to five years) will work better for many small businesses.

The Capital Call

Cardiff is the clear leader for equipment financing because Bluevine simply doesn’t provide a true equipment finance product. On the other hand, Cardiff has an entire program built for it with longer terms, the ability to include soft costs, and options for startups and various credit profiles.

Financing for business equipment through Cardiff can spread payments over years. And because they use the equipment as collateral, you get better terms and a higher likelihood of approval. Bluevine’s general-purpose loans can’t compete with that level of specialization or affordability for equipment purchases. For any significant equipment or vehicle financing need, Cardiff is the go-to option here.

Business Loans (Term Loans)

Cardiff's Overview

A term loan from Cardiff is typically a one-time lump sum disbursed to the business, repaid on a set schedule over a fixed term (usually multiple years). The average business term loan through Cardiff is 39 months. The loan amounts can go as high as $500,000 for well-qualified borrowers, with smaller loans starting around $5,000.1

These loans are usually unsecured, though they may require a personal guarantee. Cardiff’s approach to term loans is to provide fast, short term business loans for working capital and other general business purposes. These loans are best suited for initiatives that will generate a return or cash flow relatively quickly so you can comfortably repay.

Rates on Cardiff term loans for business expenses vary by product and business qualifications. However, rates can be as low as 5.99% for secured loan types.1 Cardiff’s loans do not have ongoing monthly fees beyond the repayment. And Cardiff offers an interest-free early payoff option for eligible borrowers. If you pay the loan off early, you might avoid some of the remaining interest.

Getting a term loan from Cardiff requires meeting their basic criteria, such as at least 12 months in business, $10K+ in monthly revenue, and a reasonable credit history.2 Cardiff’s threshold is lower than that of many competitors. That said, higher credit and solid financials will get you better rates and larger amounts.

Bluevine's Overview

Bluevine does not directly offer long-term business loans itself, but it facilitates access to them through lending partners. Essentially, Bluevine acts as a broker or referrer: you submit an application (the same application for the credit line can be used), and if you either don’t qualify for the line or you indicate interest in a larger or longer loan, Bluevine can connect you to a partner lender who will fund a term loan.

These partner term loans have terms up to 24 months (two years). They are more akin to a traditional short term loan. The maximum amount is $500K, which is substantial, but note that approval for that would require very strong financials.15 The rates and fees for these partner loans are not explicitly published by Bluevine, since it depends on the partner lender and your profile.

It’s worth noting that Bluevine’s value-add here is convenience. You don’t have to apply separately elsewhere. Bluevine will route your application to a partner if appropriate. However, Bluevine doesn’t service or fund these loans. You will ultimately be working with another lender through a separate portal or point of contact for the actual loan management.

Additionally, Bluevine’s process might sometimes result in not getting a term loan if you don’t fit the partner’s criteria. Bluevine is essentially limited by what its partner network can do.

The Capital Call

When it comes to standard business term loan lenders, Cardiff has the edge in flexibility and likelihood of funding. While Bluevine can facilitate a term loan through a partner, Cardiff directly offers term loans and can customize them to the business’s situation. Cardiff’s willingness to consider lower credit scores and shorter time in business means more businesses will secure a loan with Cardiff. Cardiff can also extend terms marginally beyond what Bluevine’s partners offer. If you need a longer term, Cardiff can shift to an SBA loan.

Bluevine’s term loan referral is a nice added service for those who meet the criteria. However, for small businesses looking for the best working capital loan provider, Cardiff is the leading choice. Cardiff gives you one-on-one guidance, more variety in structuring, and a higher chance of approval. In essence, Cardiff built its term loans around small business needs. Bluevine’s term loans are an auxiliary offering handed off to another lender. That difference can impact the experience and outcomes for the borrower.

For a straightforward business loan, Cardiff wins on versatility and direct service.

Working Capital

up to $500K
Approval in minutes

Funding same day

cardiff

Financing Excellence
Since 2004

cardiff.co

cardiff

SBA Loans

Cardiff's Overview

Applying for a long-term loan through the SBA loan program typically requires a lot of paperwork and time. Cardiff’s value here is to make SBA financing more accessible and faster for business owners who might be intimidated by the traditional bank process. Cardiff helps small businesses secure financing through small business loans up to $5 million, specifically SBA 7(a) and 504 loans or the Microloan program products, by connecting them with its network of SBA lenders and streamlining much of the process. They essentially act as a facilitator, removing a lot of friction.4

Getting funds for an SBA loan can take weeks, even with expert help. Once approved, Cardiff advertises quick approvals and fast funding for SBA business loans for small business. They can also help clients bridge financial gaps with other loan products while they wait for funding to come through.

Typically, SBA loans through Cardiff are SBA 7(a) loans up to $500K or more, used for working capital, debt refinance, or expansion. The interest rates are low (SBA rates being a few points above prime), and repayment terms are long (seven to 10 years), making monthly payments very affordable.4 Cardiff assists with the application preparation (financial statements, business plan, etc.) to get it in front of an SBA lender. Because Cardiff has experience and relationships, they can match your business with leading private small business lenders.

SBA loans have more stringent criteria than other loan types. Cardiff recommends businesses have at least two years in business, a credit score of 600+, and at least $20,000 in monthly revenue.4 Cardiff likely will screen applicants and only pursue the SBA route if you meet the SBA benchmarks. If you don’t, you may still qualify for an in-house product as an alternative.

Bluevine's Overview

Bluevine also provides access to SBA 7(a) loans through partner lenders, but with a narrower scope. Bluevine provides access to SBA 7(a) loans up to $350,000. Bluevine connects applicants to an SBA lending partner that will handle the underwriting and funding of the SBA loan.9 Bluevine’s involvement is mostly lead generation; the heavy lifting is done by the SBA lender.

While Bluevine touts a tech-forward approach, SBA loans inherently involve more documentation and SBA approval. Bluevine’s partner might get you a pre-qualification quickly, but actual funding will still take some time (often a few weeks).

To get an SBA loan, you need to meet SBA requirements, usually at least two years in business, good credit, solid revenues and profitability, and you must be a qualifying small business. Bluevine notes that you can use a line of credit to cover the required 10-30% down payment on the loan. However, since the loan tops out at $350K, Bluevine’s platform wouldn’t help if you need a larger loan.4

The Capital Call

Cardiff has the edge in the SBA Loans category due to its broader reach and hands-on support. Both Cardiff and Bluevine can connect businesses to SBA lenders, but Cardiff’s approach is more comprehensive. Cardiff can assist with larger SBA loans, and they integrate the SBA option into a continuum of financing solutions. If there’s a delay or issue, Cardiff can offer a stopgap funding or pivot you to another product. Bluevine’s SBA offering is narrower and essentially out of Bluevine’s hands once the referral is made.

Cardiff’s emphasis on actively guiding you and helping package your application to improve success. This is crucial because SBA loans can be complex.

So, for fast small business lending, Cardiff stands out as the better choice for most businesses, especially those seeking the maximum amount or wanting guidance through the SBA maze. Bluevine’s SBA loan access is fine for a subset of needs (sub-$350K loans for well-qualified borrowers), but Cardiff can cover that range and beyond, making it the more versatile and helpful partner for SBA financing.

Business Credit Cards

Cardiff's Overview

In the business credit card category, Cardiff currently offers two options. Taken together, Cardiff’s Business Card and Business Rewards Card give small business owners access to flexible, low-cost financing with features, such as:

  • 0% Introductory APR for 12 months on purchases and balance transfers.5 This benefits business owners who want to finance short term expenses interest-free, which effectively makes it a free short term loan if used wisely. It also means you could transfer a balance from another high-interest card and pay it off in a year without interest.
  • No Annual Fee.5 Cardiff doesn’t charge you just to have the card.
  • Flexible Credit. While exact credit limits depend on the business, Cardiff approves businesses based on business revenue rather than a credit score. A Cardiff card also allows business owners to withdraw cash advances up to their limit, making the card a more versatile financial tool.5
  • Enhanced travel benefits, 24/7 cardmember service, and detailed statements with online management.5
  • Financial Separation. Keep business and personal expenses easily, helping manage bookkeeping and building business credit.5

The Cardiff business credit cards complement its loans. For example, you might use a Cardiff loan for a big project, and use the Cardiff card for smaller ongoing expenses, thereby covering all financing bases. Cardiff’s business credit cards for small businesses are a flexible, low-cost financing tool for purchases.

Bluevine's Overview

Bluevine offers the Bluevine Business Cash Back Mastercard, which is a credit card for small businesses. This card is integrated into Bluevine’s suite of banking services. Key features of the Bluevine business credit card include:

  • Unlimited 1.5% Cash Back on every purchase.10
  • No Annual Fee, which makes it easy to keep around.10
  • Integration with Bluevine Checking keeps your card transactions and payments in sync with your Bluevine business checking account. One dashboard for banking and credit.10
  • As a Mastercard, the card comes with advanced security and fraud protection and exclusive Mastercard perks.10

The Bluevine Business Mastercard is only available to Bluevine Business Checking Account holders at this time. Applying for the card is not an option either. You must wait for Bluevine to notify you through the portal that you are eligible.10

The Capital Call

When it comes to business credit cards, the best small business credit card can vary based on a business’s needs. However, with 0% APR for 12 months, Cardiff offers a rare and extremely beneficial feature for small businesses. It allows you to make large purchases or cover expenses and effectively borrow money for free for a year. For a business that needs breathing room to pay off an expense, Cardiff’s card is clearly superior. It also boasts potentially higher credit limits and includes travel perks that might be useful if your business involves travel.

On the other hand, Bluevine’s card is better for ongoing rewards if your company puts large amounts on the card annually and pays it off monthly. Also, Bluevine’s card being open by invitation only to Bluevine’s checking customers places it out of reach for many small business owners. The Cardiff card is open to any individual regardless of where they bank.

Because Cardiff provides greater flexibility for financing, it rises to the top for a new or growing business. Unless a business already has ample cash and just wants to maximize rewards, Cardiff’s credit card stands out as the more powerful tool, especially in the first year. It’s an excellent way to manage cash flow on purchases without incurring financing costs. We believe Cardiff takes the win in this category.

The Capital Closeout

Both Cardiff and Bluevine have their strengths, and the “right” choice can depend on your business’s specific situation. Bluevine deserves credit for its streamlined fintech approach, which is a great fit for businesses that are already more established and want a fast, self-service credit line or an integrated checking-and-credit solution.

If you have strong credit, a year or more in business, and primarily need a straightforward working capital line (with some cash-back), Bluevine can be a convenient and reliable partner. Bluevine’s platform is especially appealing for tech-savvy owners who value a modern user experience and don’t require a wide array of loan types.

However, Cardiff stands out as the more comprehensive and flexible working capital financing company for most small businesses. The ability to choose from multiple products, from short term loans and MCAs to lines of credit, equipment financing, and SBA loans, is invaluable. Businesses evolve, and funding needs change. Cardiff can support that journey at each step, whether it’s financing a piece of equipment over five years or advancing cash to meet next week’s payroll.

Compared to Bluevine, Cardiff offers greater flexibility and scalability. Need funds in a pinch? With fast MCA business loans, Cardiff can approve and fund you in a day. Need a larger loan or longer term? Cardiff can arrange that, either through its own programs or an SBA loan. Concerned you won’t qualify? Cardiff’s lenient criteria and broad loan options mean they’ll try to find a way. Cardiff also brings a human touch and an ability to finance businesses that aren’t perfect on paper.

For the vast majority of small and mid-sized businesses, Cardiff’s broad product suite, adaptable terms, and fast funding give it an edge in empowering business growth. Bluevine is a solid option for those who fit its mold, but it can’t match Cardiff’s depth and versatility.

If you value one-stop access to funding that can grow with your business, and you want the assurance that you’ll have options even if your credit or circumstances aren’t ideal, Cardiff offers a level of support and flexibility that Bluevine can’t fully replicate.

Working Capital

up to $500K
Approval in minutes

Funding same day

cardiff

Financing Excellence
Since 2004

cardiff.co

cardiff

Frequently Asked Questions

No. Bluevine does not provide merchant cash advances (MCAs) or any kind of sales-based financing. Bluevine’s flagship product is a line of credit with fixed repayments, not based on a percentage of sales.

Cardiff’s online application takes just minutes, and you can get an approval decision in just five minutes. Once approved, Cardiff can often deposit funds as soon as the same day.

Begin by filling out a short application and linking to your bank account via Plaid. Once you submit the required information, Cardiff will provide an instant quote or approval. You can E-sign the loan agreement to accept the offer.

Bluevine requires a minimum personal credit score of 625 for its business line of credit. Keep in mind, 625 is the minimum.7 A higher score can lead to larger credit lines or better rates. In addition, you should have no recent bankruptcies and a generally healthy credit history.

Cardiff does not impose a minimum FICO score requirement for many of its financing products. They pride themselves on working with business owners who have lower credit or have been turned down by banks. Generally, if your credit is at least 500, and you have strong revenue, Cardiff will consider your application.1

Higher credit can get you better rates and terms, but a sub-600 score is not an automatic disqualifier because Cardiff looks at the whole picture.

Bluevine doesn’t offer dedicated equipment financing or leasing. You cannot get a multi-year equipment loan from Bluevine specifically tied to a piece of equipment. You could use Bluevine’s 6-month line of credit or a one to two year term loan via its partners to buy equipment, but that’s a workaround, not a specialized solution.

Cardiff’s financing amounts for working capital and term loans range from $5,000 to $500,000. Equipment financing caps off at $250,000. However, through its SBA loan facilitation, Cardiff can help businesses secure SBA 7(a) loans up to $500,000 or even $5 million (the SBA program’s max).4

Bluevine can connect you with SBA lenders for an SBA 7(a) loan up to $350,000,9 but Bluevine itself doesn’t underwrite or fund the SBA loan. Essentially, Bluevine serves as a broker. They pass your application to an SBA lending partner who will then work with you to complete the process.

This process can be convenient if you want to see SBA options without leaving the Bluevine platform, but keep in mind that the actual SBA loan will come from a bank or SBA lender. If you need an SBA loan larger than $350K, you’ll need to work with another lender.

Cardiff offers a wide range of financing solutions for small businesses. Their product lineup includes:

  • Working Capital Loans: Short term business loans for general purposes, typically three to 18 month terms2
  • Merchant Cash Advances: Lump sum in exchange for a percentage of future sales, very fast funding
  • Business Lines of Credit: Revolving credit you can draw from as needed
  • Equipment Financing/Leasing: Loans or leases to purchase business equipment or vehicles, with two to five-year terms2
  • SBA Loans: They facilitate SBA 7(a) loans in partnership with SBA lenders, for larger, long-term capital at low rates
  • Business Credit Cards: A card with 0% intro APR and no annual fee for managing expenses5

This comprehensive suite means Cardiff can fund needs ranging from a few thousand dollars short term cash all the way to a multi-million dollar expansion loan (SBA). Few competitors offer such breadth in financing options.

Yes. Cardiff’s business credit card has an introductory 0% APR for 12 months on purchases and balance transfers, and no annual fee. The 0% intro feature makes it stand out, especially for businesses that plan to carry a balance for short term financing needs. The Cardiff card also provides travel benefits, expense management tools, and allows business owners to separate business spending from personal.5

The Bluevine Business Cash Back Mastercard is Bluevine’s business credit card. Its key benefit is unlimited 1.5% cash back on all purchases. It also has no annual fee. The card integrates with your Bluevine business checking, so it’s easy to make payments and track expenses in one place.10

While it doesn’t have a 0% intro APR period, if you pay your balance in full each month, you avoid interest and simply earn the cash back rewards. The card also provides standard Mastercard benefits and security protections.

Bluevine’s line of credit has a 6-month repayment term on each draw by default. When you draw funds, the amount is typically due in 26 weekly installments (though in some cases Bluevine may offer monthly installments over 12 months).8

The credit line itself is revolving, meaning as you pay down your balance, that credit becomes available to use again. The interest rate is quoted as a simple interest. For top customers, it starts around 7.8% (which would be roughly equivalent to 15% APR).7 There are no maintenance or draw fees, and you only pay interest on the outstanding principal. However, Bluevine does not offer longer terms on the line of credit. If you need longer to repay, you would have to either refinance that draw or look into their term loan options.

Cardiff offers flexible repayment terms depending on the product. For most working capital loans (or MCAs), terms range from three months up to about 18 months. They can occasionally go out to 24 months in certain cases.2 Equipment financing with Cardiff comes with two to five-year terms,3 allowing for much longer repayment on large asset purchases. SBA loans facilitated by Cardiff have seven to 10-year terms, as is standard for SBA 7(a) loans.

Additionally, Cardiff is flexible with payment frequency. They can do daily, weekly, or monthly payments to align with your cash flow.2 For example, an MCA might use daily micro-payments, whereas an equipment loan might be monthly.

Yes, Bluevine has a list of restricted industries for its financing products.11 Bluevine generally will not fund:

  • Businesses in the adult entertainment industry (pornography, etc.)
  • Gambling operations (illegal or legal casinos, betting services)
  • Firearms or weapons dealers
  • Cryptocurrency businesses
  • Financial services or lenders (e.g., you can’t be a lending company trying to get a loan)
  • Political campaigns
  • Certain types of auto dealers or sales operations
  • Businesses in marijuana/cannabis (due to federal regulations, even if legal at state level)

Additionally, Bluevine doesn’t operate in some locations (NV, ND, SD, and some territories),11 effectively restricting businesses based there. If you fall into a restricted category, Bluevine will decline your application.

Cardiff has experience with trucking, construction, restaurants, medical/dental practices, retail, automotive repair, landscaping, you name it. Even industries that banks consider high risk are welcome at Cardiff.

As long as your business is legal and generating revenue, Cardiff will try to work with you. They even handle specialized financing like financing for franchises or specific professions (e.g., contractor loans, healthcare practice loans). It’s very likely Cardiff has either a product or an approach tailored to your industry’s needs.

Bluevine’s line of credit is generally unsecured. However, Bluevine will typically require additional documentation for credit lines over $200K, and they do require a personal guarantee from the business owner.12 You don’t have to put up a particular asset like a house or piece of equipment as collateral.

Cardiff offers many unsecured financing options and only requires collateral for specific purposes, such as equipment loans or potentially SBA loans. Their working capital loans and MCAs are unsecured (no specific collateral). A personal guarantee is standard, though.

For equipment financing, the equipment itself serves as collateral. Cardiff holds a title or a lien on the equipment until it’s paid off. SBA loans facilitated by Cardiff may require collateral if available, as SBA rules require lenders to take collateral when possible, especially for larger loans.

Neither Cardiff nor Bluevine generally asks for upfront hard collateral like real estate for their core products.

Yes. Both Cardiff and Bluevine report to credit bureaus, which can help build your business credit profile over time. Bluevine explicitly reports its line of credit account activity to at least one major business credit bureau, Experian Business.7 So, on-time payments on a Bluevine credit line or loan should positively impact your business credit score.

Cardiff also reports to business credit agencies (and possibly personal credit for certain loans, if you’re the guarantor).13 Cardiff emphasizes helping businesses build credit and graduate to better terms, implying that responsible use of Cardiff financing can improve your creditworthiness. Additionally, Cardiff’s business credit card reports usage and payments, which will build business credit just like any other business credit card. The key is to make timely payments.

Both lenders can become stepping stones to establish credit history for your business, which can open doors to larger or more traditional financing down the road.

Sources:

1https://cardiff.co/
2https://cardiff.co/business-loans/products/merchant-cash-advance/
3https://cardiff.co/business-loans/products/equipment-leasing/
4https://cardiff.co/business-loans/products/sba-loans/
5https://cardiff.co/business-loans/products/business-cards/
6https://www.bluevine.com/business-loans
7https://www.bluevine.com/business-loans/line-of-credit
8https://support.bluevine.com/s/article/What-are-the-Bluevine-Line-of-Credit-repayment-plans-and-their-requirements
9https://www.bluevine.com/business-loans/sba-loan
10https://www.bluevine.com/business-credit-card
11https://support.bluevine.com/s/article/Am-I-potentially-eligible-for-a-Bluevine-Line-of-Credit
12https://support.bluevine.com/s/article/How-can-I-increase-my-credit-line
13https://cardiff.co/privacy-policy/
14https://www.bluevine.com/guides/line-of-credit/how-to-use-line-of-credit
15https://www.bluevine.com/business-loans/term-loan

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